Strengths: Stiff, light, comfortable (does a great job absorbing road buzz even with aluminum clinchers & 23mm tires at 120psi), stable handling, great looking. For under 2 grand (off eBay, of course) it weighs 14.1 lbs (with the Reynolds DV46t), pedals, & cages. If you're on something of a budget - though nobody is saying 2 grand is chump change - you can't beat it.
Weaknesses: You would not buy this bike if you want a) something unique, b) something Italian, or c) you tend to hit solid objects at high speed with great frequency. Also, buying a used carbon frame is not for everyone (some believe it to be uber-stupid) and should be done carefully. However, after having bought 4 second-hand carbon frames from shops I have yet to face an issue.
Bottom Line:
Just a perfect all-rounder. There may be lighter frames, aero frames, or more exotic frames but this one still does it all. The SL3 is lighter, stiffer, etc. etc. but unless you're on the Continental Tour you're not going to notice and better to put the money to a nice set of wheels. Getting this bike to 28-32 mph with aero wheels and keeping it there on flats, climbing long nasty grades, or descending sharp and winding roads is just too easy. I ride primarily for fitness and this bike is like cheating. The only better value I can think of in the peloton of carbon bikes is the Jamis Xenith SL (though it's said to be less comfortable over long rides - but no first hand experience). But after putting together this bike and riding it for a season, there are no regrets here.
Weaknesses: Geometry is quite aggressive for comfort riding after all this one is designed for a pure race machine.
Bottom Line:
I had upgraded from my previous Giant TCR 1 to this one. The first thing I noticed about this bike was how unbelievably light it was...everything included with pedals was around I'd guess the 7 kilo mark.
The transfer of power from my leg to the back wheel was impressive. This bike just screams to go faster and faster. When I put my foot down hard or jump up of my seat to sprint, it accelerates like a bullet. I am not a racer but I use this bike everyday for commuting. I've noticed I am travelling to and from work in lesser time and feel much less fatigue.
The bike is very stiff. Fast downhill ride feels solid. Cornering is very smooth and precise. Takes a few ride to get used to the change in geometry and handling from my Giant. At first I thought the Giant had a precise handling but after getting used to this one, the Giant kindof feel very basic to me.
Bike Setup: 2009 S-Works FACT 11r carbon Frame, Dura Ace 7800 Groupset and Ksyrium SL Wheels, Thomson Elite Seat post and stem, Carbon Handle bar and Keo Ironman Pedals.
Strengths: Max power transfer with every sprint, increased climbing endurance and speed, dropped two min of time on first climb just by changing bikes.
Weaknesses: Even though stiff, may be limits on durability if 230+ lbs, I did break 5 1090 SRAM chains and bent one power dome SRAM RED cassette though, in the same time frame.
Bottom Line:
2009 61mm Tarmac SL2 frame developed a 2 inch horizontal crack on the lower part of non drive side chain stay as it meets bottom bracket. I have 12000 miles on it in 14 months. Specialized covered it no problem. I inspect before every ride to be safe, my weight could play factor 245 to 235 lbs peak season.
Bike Setup: SRAM red throughout, Zipp bars and stem, Fulcrum race 1 two way fit wheels. Ceramic bearings throughout.
Overall Rating:
Value Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Ayler
a Road Racer
Date Reviewed: November 20, 2009
Strengths: Excellent execution of stiffness with vertical compiance that would rival 'plush' bikes.
This bike shines if your ride is 20 or 100+ miles. Nice, smooth riding bike that is a racer's dream.
Weaknesses: Limited color schemes. Having this custom painted will void warranty. Didn't like the Specialized crabon cranks, so I stayed with the Carbon Capmy Record cranks.
Bottom Line:
Was riding a '07 Madone 5.2. It was so stiff that I felt every crack. Decided to purchase the Specialized 54cm SL2 due to its stiffness and vertical compliance. It came highly recommended. (I was not disappointed.)
At 260 lbs, I found the bike to be stable and safe without weight limits. Other carbon manufacturers place a 180-190 lb limit on their finest frames, Specialized does not.
Bike has seen several 40+ mph speeds on the flats without any weakness or hesitaion. Power transfer is awesome. For the heavier rider that generates mega-watts, this bike is clydesdale approved.
Strengths: Stiff, comfy, light, and nice looking bike.
Weaknesses: I have had some issues with the headset coming loose periodically, but otherwise, no issues.
Bottom Line:
This is a review for my 2009 SL2, that was a frame warranty replacement for my Pro SL of the same year.
I was surprised at how different the SL2 felt as compared to my SL. The bike is both stiffer and more comfortable, and has a certain liveliness to it that the SL lacked. It reminds of a good quality Ti frame, in terms of ride quality, but with the added stiffness and weight benefits of the carbon.
Similar Products Used: Giant OCR Composite 2
Tarmac Pro SL
Custom Steel
Windsor aluminum frame
Ritchey Road Classic
Klein Quantum, among others.
Bike Setup: Red derailleurs and shifters, Force brakes. Mavic Ksyrium SL's. Specialized All Conditino Armadillo Elite tires for the winter, maybe something tubeless in the spring.
